Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Introduction

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a comforting one-pan meal combining tender chicken thighs with flavorful rice soaked in a sweet and smoky sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty dinner without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides.
2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes to bring out its nutty flavor.
5. Step 5: Add chicken broth and half of the sauce mixture to the pan. Stir well to combine.
6. Step 6: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
7. Step 7: Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes to allow the rice to cook and absorb the flavors.
8. Step 8: Add the mixed vegetables, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
9. Step 9: Remove from heat and let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
10. Step 10: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use white or brown rice depending on your preference; adjust cooking time for brown rice accordingly.
• Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth in the BBQ sauce mixture.
• Swap chicken thighs for breasts if desired, but be careful not to overcook them as they dry out faster.
• Include frozen mixed vegetables for convenience or fresh ones like bell peppers and corn for added crunch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice seems dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they cook faster and can dry out if overcooked, so reduce the simmering time and check for doneness early.

Is it necessary to toast the rice before cooking?

Toasting the rice is optional but recommended, as it adds a subtle nutty flavor and improves the texture of the cooked rice.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 116 reviews

A flavorful one-pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe featuring tender seared chicken thighs simmered with aromatic spices, sweet honey, and tangy BBQ sauce, cooked together with long-grain rice and optional mixed vegetables for a comforting and easy meal.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasonings

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Rice and Broth

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth

Sauce

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 clove minced garlic

Additional

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, coat the chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring all sides are well seasoned.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil if needed. Sear the chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well to blend all flavors.
4. Toast the Rice: In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring continuously to prevent burning and to bring out a nutty flavor.
5. Add Broth and Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and half of the prepared BBQ-honey sauce into the skillet with the toasted rice. Stir to combine everything evenly.
6. Return the Chicken: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture. Pour the remaining BBQ sauce over the chicken.
7. Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the liquid and the chicken to cook through.
8. Add Vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables if using, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
9. Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes to settle the flavors. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot.

Notes

• For extra flavor, use homemade or your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn work well in this recipe.
• Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
• You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but thighs provide more moisture and flavor.
• This recipe can be adapted to use brown rice; just increase the simmering time accordingly.

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, One-Pan Dinner, Chicken Thighs, BBQ Sauce, Easy Chicken Recipes, Weeknight Dinner